Spring is here, summer is around the corner, and we’re set to spend the warmer months pottering around our gardens and sunning ourselves in our yards. One of the best ways to enjoy those rare moments in which we experience a generous amount of British sunshine is with a garden patio – the perfect way to soak up those rays. 

Whether you’re looking to start your own DIY patio project or you’re after some patio maintenance tips, our BC Profiles team have put together some need-to-know information and advice regarding DIY patio landscaping. 

Planning Your Patio

Starting at square one, first of all, you need to consider the planning process of your patio, including the style that you’re going to plump for as well as surrounding elements of your design. This involves important aspects such as what size and shape your patio will be, as well as what style of patio paving you’re going to choose and how it will tie in with the overall look and feel of your garden or yard. 

Other elements to consider when planning your patio space include: 

• Paths
• Walls and boundaries
• Bedding plants
• Lawned areas 
• Planting (pots, shrubs and trees)
• Lighting
• Water features

The number of features you’ll be able to include alongside your patio will depend on the size of your plot as well as the budget you have to play with. When planning, it’s important that you don’t get carried away and forget about the tools and materials needed for landscaping too. 

Landscaping Equipment

As well as the paving slabs themselves, you’ll also need to think about purchasing landscaping products as well as any equipment too. You should consider: 

• Bricks
• Block paving
• Cement and mortar
• Patio jointing compound
• Paving drainage channels
• Membrane and landscaping fabric 
• Sand and aggregates
• Timber and decking
• Paint and finishes
• Sandstone Sealer / Patio Sealer

Question: What Sand Do You Put Between Slabs?

Answer: A good quality sharp sand is needed between the slabs when laying paving for a patio or outdoor area. A sand and cement mix is beneficial as it can help prevent weed growth. 

Taking Care of Your Patio

Once you have designs planned and constructed, you’ll need to keep up with aftercare and patio maintenance. These are important steps should you want to improve both the lifespan and appearance of your patio and thankfully there are plenty of amazing products out there to help make doing so a doddle. 

Brush, Wash & Weed

A brush and pressure washer can be your best friends when it comes to preserving your patio; most people own a simple garden brush for odd jobs and general upkeep, but investing in a good quality pressure washer will definitely pay off in the long run. 

Power washers are incredibly easy to use and the results speak for themselves after doing so, a quick blast with your washer and your patio will almost look brand new. Regularly brushing your patio will remove excess dirt and debris that accumulates during gardening or adverse weather, and doing so not only makes things look a lot nicer, but it’ll also prevent seeds from settling in the cracks of your paving and germinating. 

How To Get Rid Of Weeds In Block Paving

Inevitably, some weeds will sprout amidst your prized patio paving, but catch them early and you’ll prevent them growing any further and properly rooting, leaving yourself nothing to worry about. Manually pulling up small amounts of weeds works just fine, while there are plenty of quality weedkillers out there that’ll help you deal with larger quantities in no time at all. 

If you are still having issues with patio weed prevention, your block paving may need further investigation or re-sealing. A properly sealed block paved patio should not experience any weed growth. For further help, read our guide on how to seal block paving. 

Sealing & Treating the Surface

Depending on the kind of stone used, many patio paving slabs can be fairly porous, meaning that they’ll naturally absorb more water and moisture in their natural habitat. Of course, when it comes to paving, this isn’t what you want! Absorbed moisture and cold conditions can lead to thawing and the cracking of your patio or paving stones, so it’s important that you invest in some surface treatments such as patio protector and patio sealer as soon as things are set in place.

At BC Profiles, you’ll find an extensive range of patio protectors and patio sealers that are specifically designed to maximise the longevity and look of your landscaping efforts. Not only will using surface treatment protect against cracking and moisture, but it also helps to prevent the likes of algae, moss and weed taking hold too. 

For more information on keeping your patio in pristine condition, check out our dedicated patio pointing guide, as well as our separate guide on how to seal block paving. We also have tips and advice on how to clean your patio to help keep your outdoor space looking like new. 

If you’re searching for more handy how to’s and guides from the experts, browse our BC Profiles help and advice page or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.